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How to Get Rid of Flying Ants in Mulch

Lisa Wampler

Flying ants, found during summer months, are social and live in groups. They are often attracted to mulch because of its organic nature. Flying ants pose no threat to humans, although you may find them annoying. Because children and animals might have access to that mulch, you may want to use a natural pesticide to help to kill off the flying ants. However, what people may believe are flying ants are often actually termites, which also like mulch. Removing flying ants is a much different process than removing termites, so make sure you correctly identify the insects that are infesting your mulch.

  1. Fill a pressurized chemical sprayer with equal parts distilled white vinegar and hot tap water. Add a couple of drops of dish soap, which helps the vinegar stick to any ants in the area.

  2. Lift and lower the handle on the chemical sprayer to create pressure within the canister.

  3. Spray the entire mulched area with the solution until the mulch is saturated. Take caution not to spray directly on flowers or grass, because the vinegar solution damages any vegetation it comes in contact with.

  4. Repeat the process each morning until you no longer see the flying ants in the area.